International workshop on illicit nuclear material trafficking
 

Terrorism has no boundaries and it is timely that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has established the Illicit Trafficking Database of radioactive material as a pillar for supporting international cooperation to prevent the transport of radioactive material across the boundaries of countries, said Science and Technology Ministry Secretary A.N.R. Amarathunga.

He was addressing the inaugural session of the IAEA sub-regional workshop on “Illicit Nuclear Trafficking” organised by the Atomic Energy Authority at Galadari Hotel on Tuesday.

The objective of the workshop is strengthening national, regional and international capabilities to prevent illicit trafficking of nuclear and other radioactive material and was attended by representatives from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Iran, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

“I am sure the exchange of information at this workshop may allow each country to make self - assessment and develop work plans for future in line with the objectives set out in the prospectus of the workshop, Amarathunga said.

The discussions to be made at the workshop would open new avenues of thinking and may even point to new directions, he said.

He congratulated the Atomic Energy Authority, Sri Lanka for supporting IAEA in staging this important regional event.

Chairman, Atomic Energy Authority Dr. W. Abeyewickreme said in Sri Lanka radioactive material was detected in Colombo Port in the near past and with the assistance of the International Atomic Energy Agency it was sent back to the country of origin.

The Radiological Disaster Management Programme of the Atomic Energy Authority is also important in the context of protecting radiation workers and the public during a radiological emergency, he said. Head, Radiation Protection Division Anil Ranjith delivered the vote of thanks.